Importing a Kei Truck Into the United States: Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about legally importing a kei truck into the US under the 25-year exemption rule — from choosing a vehicle to clearing customs.
Importing a Kei Truck Into the United States
Importing a kei truck to the United States has become increasingly popular over the last decade. With the 25-year rule now covering trucks from the late 1990s, more and more agricultural, utility, and enthusiast buyers are bringing these compact Japanese workhorses stateside.
Understanding the 25-Year Rule
NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) allows vehicles 25 years or older to be imported without meeting FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards). This is the cornerstone of the kei truck import process.
This threshold rolls forward every year — as of 2026, that means any vehicle manufactured in 2001 or earlier qualifies. Check your build date (not model year) against today's date minus 25 years before assuming a vehicle is eligible.
EPA Compliance
The EPA has its own emissions exemption, which actually kicks in earlier — at 21 years old — but since NHTSA's 25-year FMVSS exemption is the longer, binding constraint, 25 years is the number that matters in practice. You'll need to submit EPA Form 3520-1 at the port of entry, checking the appropriate exemption box for your vehicle's age.
Step-by-Step Import Process
1. Choose Your Vehicle and Importer
Most buyers purchase through a Japanese auction house or direct importer. Popular options include:
- ◆Japanese auction platforms (USS, JAA, TAA)
- ◆Direct importers who source and ship complete containers
- ◆Individual sellers advertising on forums and Facebook groups
Always verify the vehicle's auction grade sheet before purchase.
2. Arrange Ocean Freight
Once the vehicle is purchased in Japan, it needs to be transported to a US port. Common ports of entry for kei trucks:
- ◆Long Beach, CA — West Coast
- ◆Baltimore, MD — East Coast
- ◆Tacoma, WA — Pacific Northwest
Container shipping runs approximately $1,200–$2,500 depending on origin port and destination.
3. Hire a Licensed Customs Broker
A licensed customs broker handles your CBP entry paperwork. They'll file:
- ◆CBP Form 7501 (Entry Summary)
- ◆Coordinate bond payment
- ◆Handle any examination fees
Broker fees typically run $300–$600.
4. Pay Customs Duties
Kei trucks are classified under HTS Code 8704.31.0000 (light trucks under 5 tons). The duty rate is 25% of the vehicle value. This is the infamous "chicken tax" and it significantly affects landed cost calculations.
*Example: $3,000 vehicle × 25% = $750 customs duty*
5. Collect Your Documentation
At clearance, ensure you receive:
- ◆Original CBP Form 7501 (stamped)
- ◆EPA Form 3520-1 (stamped)
- ◆DOT Form HS-7
- ◆Original Japanese title (shakken)
These documents are essential for state registration.
6. Arrange Inland Transport
Once cleared, your truck needs to move from port to you. Options:
- ◆Drive-away — cheapest if you can pick it up
- ◆Open transport — most common, $400–$900 depending on distance
- ◆Enclosed transport — for higher-value or show vehicles
Total Cost Estimate
Use our Import Cost Calculator to get an accurate estimate, but typical all-in costs for a quality kei truck:
| Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Vehicle purchase | $3,000–$8,000 |
| Ocean shipping | $1,200–$2,500 |
| Customs (25%) | $750–$2,000 |
| Broker fee | $300–$600 |
| Inland transport | $400–$900 |
| **Total** | **$5,650–$14,000** |
As of mid-2026, the dollar has been trading near its weakest level against the yen since 1996, which has meaningfully improved US buying power at Japanese auctions even as demand — and auction prices in yen — have climbed.
Legal Import Doesn't Mean Legal to Drive
Clearing customs only gets your kei truck into the country — it does not mean you can register it. State law varies enormously: some states register kei trucks exactly like any other vehicle, others cap them at 35 mph or ban interstate use, and a handful currently refuse registration entirely (with at least one state, Illinois, actively revoking registrations that were previously issued). Check our state-by-state registration guides before you buy — not after the truck arrives at port.
What to Watch Out For
Rust is the most common issue with imported kei trucks. The undercarriage and bed floor are the first places to check. Auction sheet grade A (4–5 stars) vehicles command a premium but are worth it.
Shakken expiry — Japanese vehicles require periodic safety inspections. A vehicle with recently expired shakken may have deferred maintenance. Price accordingly.
Right-hand drive — All kei trucks imported from Japan are right-hand drive. This is legal in all 50 states but takes adjustment when driving on US roads.
*Have questions about your import? Join the community discussion or check our state-specific registration guides.*